Is supply chain management a good master's degree?

While the value of a master's in supply chain management can vary from student to student, this degree can prepare graduates for in-demand jobs in a growing sector. According to BLS projections, supply chain managers will see job growth of 19% from 2023 to 2033, which is more than six times higher than the growth rate across all jobs during the period.

How long does a master's in supply chain management take to finish?

It takes one to two years to finish a master’s in supply chain management, depending on the program. You’ll complete 30 to 36 credits of graduate courses during that time, including classes in procurement, data analytics, and supply chain planning.

How much does an online master's in supply chain management cost?

The cost of an online master’s in supply chain management varies depending on the program. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate tuition cost an average of $20,513 during the 2021–22 academic year. Public universities typically cost less, and an online format can help students save money on tuition and expenses.

Do supply chain managers make money?

Yes, supply chain managers earn above-average salaries, with a median annual wage of $79,400, according to May 2023 BLS data. The median annual wage for all workers in 2023 was $48,060, by comparison. Earning potential varies depending on location, experience, and job title. A master’s degree can also boost earning potential.

Is supply chain management a hard career?

Careers in supply chain management require strong analytical, decision-making, and strategic planning skills, along with specialized knowledge in global transportation, production, and procurement. A master’s in supply chain management can strengthen these skills and prepare graduates to succeed in supply chain careers.

Online master's in supply chain management programs

Prepare for in-demand jobs by earning a master’s in supply chain management online. Discover how this degree can transform your career.

Explore online supply chain master’s programs

Why get a master's in supply chain management online?

Gain specialized expertise

Explore the production process and global transportation systems to specialize your knowledge.

Land in-demand jobs

Demand for supply chain managers is high over the next decade.

Boost earning potential

Supply chain managers report above-average salaries.

In the globally connected economy, efficient supply chains allow companies to expand their operations and reach new customers. A master's in supply chain management can help you develop the skills necessary to oversee international production, procurement, and transportation networks. Discover how earning your master's in supply chain management online can transform your career.

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What can you do with an online supply chain management degree?

Earning your master's in supply chain management online can prepare you for in-demand logistics careers. With this degree, you can work as a supply chain manager for global corporations or specialize in a segment of the supply chain.

Logistics specialists work in diverse industries, including manufacturing, the public sector, and wholesale trade. They also work for companies that rely on distribution to deliver products and services to customers.

In addition to supply chain manager and logistician, common job titles include:

Production manager
Global transportation manager
Procurement administrator
Materials manager
Import/export manager

Salary expectations for graduates of supply chain degree programs

How much do supply chain managers earn? According to O*NET, supply chain managers earned a median annual salary of $99,200 in May 2023. That translates to an hourly rate of about $48.

Several factors can influence your earning potential, including degree level, industry, location, and experience.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that supply chain managers who work for the federal government or in the manufacturing sector earned median salaries higher than the overall median for these professionals. Supply chain managers in Washington, D.C., Delaware, and Maryland reported the highest average salaries, followed by those in Hawaii and Washington state.

Career outlook for graduates of supply chain programs

Global trade networks, the growth of e-commerce, and consumer expectations have all transformed the supply chain industry. Complex challenges with inventory management, transportation, and delivery mean greater demand for supply chain managers.

In fact, the BLS projects that jobs for supply chain managers will grow by 19% from 2023 to 2033. That's significantly higher than the projected 3% growth for all occupations during the same period.

What to expect from supply chain management graduate degrees

Master's programs in supply chain management teach specialists who oversee the production and transportation of goods and services to evaluate supply chains and recommend data-driven changes. Coursework about the flow of goods, the production process, and sustainable business practices can help you build in-demand skills.

How long does it take to earn a master's in supply chain management online?

Online master's in supply chain management programs typically require students to earn 30 to 36 credits of graduate-level coursework. You can expect to spend about two years earning your degree, depending on your credit load and program.

Some programs offer accelerated one-year master's degrees. You can also earn an .

Admissions for online master's programs

The admission requirements for online master's programs in supply chain management vary. However, many include the following:

Bachelor's degree: Master's programs generally require a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Standardized test scores: Depending on the program, you may need to submit GMAT or GRE scores. Some programs use test-optional admissions.
Supply chain experience: Some master's programs recommend or require professional experience in transportation, procurement, or related fields. College-level courses in supply chain management and related topics can also strengthen your application.

You'll also likely submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a résumé.

Explore online supply chain master’s programs

Curriculum for online master's programs

During an online master's in supply chain management program, you'll strengthen leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills through core and elective courses. Here are some common classes you'll likely encounter during an online supply chain management master's degree:

Supply chain planning: Develop the leadership and organizational skills to schedule and plan logistics operations, including inventory management, production, and customization.
Operations management: Learn how to manage supply chain operations, including facilities management, material handling systems, and layout planning. You'll hone decision-making skills and focus on manufacturing, quality assurance, and service systems.
Supply chain cost management: Controlling the cost of supply chains is a key skill for logistics leaders. Analyze the design and development of supply chains with a focus on cost management, including supplier management.
Project management: Learn how to apply project management skills in a logistics setting, including managing research and development projects, overseeing manufacturing projects, and scheduling operations. This course can also strengthen resource management and allocation skills.
Data Analytics: Strengthen your data modeling and analytical skills in order to make data-driven decisions.

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